MEMO AND THE NOTEBOOKS

Memo and The Notebooks is a genre-mixing band with roots in both San Jose and Santa Cruz, CA. The group was started by Memo Renteria for his senior recital project at San José State University, but what began as a school assignment quickly grew into a fully formed band with its own sound and identity. Blending elements of hip-hop, indie, punk, and hardcore, Memo and The Notebooks doesn't aim to fit into any box… they're here to break out of it.

The band consists of Memo Renteria on vocals and guitar, Chris Askins on guitar and keyboards, Eric Van Lare on bass, and Andy Bridger on drums. Originally a six-piece, they've tightened things up over time without losing the energy and unpredictability that made them stand out in the first place.

Their live shows bring a strong sense of nostalgia and personality. It's not unusual to see a GameCube running Smash Bros. off to the side or spot the band wearing clothes that rep their favorite TV shows, movies, and music influences. Whether they're playing a punk venue or an all-ages space, Memo and The Notebooks shows always feel personal, loud, and full of life.

This isn't a band trying to follow a trend. Memo and The Notebooks is here to build something real and different, and they're having fun doing it.